Hurricane Season Home Preparation Guide

As a South Florida homeowner, hurricane season isn't just a weather forecast—it's an annual reality that requires serious preparation. With the Atlantic hurricane season officially running from June 1st through November 30th, the time to prepare your home is now, not when a storm is already bearing down on our coastline.

After 15 years of helping South Florida families prepare for and recover from hurricanes, I've seen firsthand the difference that proper preparation makes. Homes that take preventive measures not only fare better during storms but also help their owners avoid costly emergency repairs and insurance headaches afterward. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to do to protect your home, your family, and your investment.

Whether you're a first-time Florida homeowner or a longtime resident, this checklist covers both the basics and the often-overlooked details that make all the difference when hurricane winds start blowing. Let's ensure your home is ready to weather the storm.

Understanding South Florida's Hurricane Season

While hurricane season officially spans six months, the risk isn't evenly distributed. Peak hurricane activity in South Florida typically occurs from mid-August through late October, with September historically being the most active month. However, that doesn't mean you should wait until summer to start preparing.

The National Hurricane Center designates different threat levels throughout the season, and understanding these can help you time your preparations:

• May-June: Perfect time for major structural inspections and repairs—complete your pre-season checklist during these months
• July-August: Early season storms possible; have all supplies ready and ensure all repairs are completed
• September-October: Peak season requires maximum vigilance and immediate action when storms form
• November: Season winds down but late-season storms can still develop

South Florida's unique geography makes us particularly vulnerable to hurricanes. Our proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Caribbean Sea means storms can approach from multiple directions, sometimes with little warning. That's why preparation can't wait for storm watches—it needs to happen during the calm months.

Essential Pre-Season Preparation Checklist

This comprehensive checklist should be completed before hurricane season begins, ideally by the end of May. Address items in the order listed, starting with structural concerns that require professional assessment and moving to items you can handle yourself.

Roof and Exterior Structure

Your roof is your home's first line of defense against hurricane-force winds and rain. A small problem in May can become a catastrophic failure in September.

• Inspect roof for damaged, loose, or missing shingles: Even minor damage can lead to major leaks during heavy rain. Look for curling edges, cracks, or granule loss on asphalt shingles.
• Check roof flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights: These are common entry points for water during storms. Flashing should be firmly attached and sealed.
• Verify roof-to-wall connections meet current building codes: Post-Andrew building codes require hurricane straps or clips. If your home was built before 1994, consider having a professional inspect these connections.
• Inspect and clean soffit and fascia: Look for signs of water damage, rot, or pest infestation. These areas can fail during high winds if compromised.
• Seal any penetrations or gaps in the roof structure: Cable lines, phone lines, and other penetrations should be properly sealed to prevent water intrusion.

Windows and Doors

Impact-resistant windows and proper storm shutters are critical for protecting your home's interior and maintaining structural integrity during a hurricane.

• Test all hurricane shutters or panels: If you have accordion shutters, deploy and retract them to ensure smooth operation. Check that tracks are clean and mechanisms work properly. For panel systems, verify all panels are present, numbered, and hardware is available.
• Inspect impact-resistant windows and doors: Check seals and weatherstripping for any deterioration. Even impact windows need proper sealing to prevent water intrusion.
• Check door frames and thresholds: Doors can fail if frames are compromised. Look for rot, damage, or loose mounting.
• Lubricate hinges and locks: When you need to secure your home quickly, everything should operate smoothly.
• Install or inspect door reinforcement kits: Garage doors are particularly vulnerable and often the first point of failure in high winds.

Drainage and Water Management

South Florida's flat terrain and heavy rainfall during hurricanes make proper drainage absolutely critical for preventing flooding.

• Clean all gutters and downspouts: Remove leaves, debris, and any blockages. During a hurricane, gutters must channel massive amounts of water away from your home.
• Verify downspouts direct water at least 5 feet from foundation: Water pooling near your foundation can lead to flooding or structural damage.
• Check yard drainage and grading: Water should flow away from your home, not toward it. Consider French drains or regrading if you have standing water issues.
• Inspect sump pumps if applicable: Test your sump pump and consider a battery backup system for power outages.
• Clean storm drains near your property: Even if they're in the street, clogged drains can cause flooding on your property.

Trees, Landscaping, and Outdoor Areas

Falling trees and flying debris cause significant damage during hurricanes. Proper landscape maintenance is essential home protection.

• Trim trees and remove dead branches: Hire a professional arborist to trim large trees, especially those near your home or power lines. Remove any dead or diseased limbs that could become projectiles.
• Remove dead or unstable trees: If you have concerns about a tree's stability, have it assessed and removed if necessary. Better to remove it on your schedule than have it crash through your roof.
• Secure or store outdoor furniture: Heavy patio furniture, grills, planters, and decorations all become dangerous projectiles in hurricane winds. Have a storage plan ready.
• Check fence integrity: Repair or reinforce weak fence sections. Consider removing fence panels that connect to your house to prevent damage if the fence fails.
• Secure or remove trampoline and play equipment: These are particularly dangerous in high winds and should be completely disassembled or secured.
• Clear yard of loose items: Garden tools, toys, decorative items—anything not secured can become airborne.

Mechanical Systems and Utilities

Protecting your home's systems ensures faster recovery after the storm and prevents additional damage.

• Service HVAC system: Have your air conditioning system inspected and serviced. After a storm, HVAC companies are overwhelmed for weeks.
• Inspect and test generator if you have one: Test under load, change oil, and ensure you have proper fuel storage. Know how to safely operate it.
• Check outdoor AC unit mounting and security: Ensure the unit is properly secured to its pad and won't tip in high winds.
• Locate main water shut-off valve: You may need to shut off water quickly. Make sure everyone in your household knows where it is.
• Test sump pump and consider backup power: If you have a sump pump, ensure it's operational and consider a battery backup.
• Document electrical panel and circuit breakers: Label all circuits clearly and know how to safely shut off power if needed.

Emergency Supplies and Documentation

Beyond physical home preparation, you need supplies and documentation ready before any storm approaches.

• Backup power solutions: Generator with fuel, portable battery packs, solar chargers for phones and devices
• Water storage: One gallon per person per day for at least three days, plus extra for pets
• Non-perishable food: At least a three-day supply that doesn't require cooking
• First aid kit and medications: Include a two-week supply of prescription medications
• Important documents: Waterproof container with insurance policies, property deed, identification, bank information, and medical records
• Cash: ATMs and credit card systems may be down for days after a storm
• Photo documentation: Take photos and video of your entire property before hurricane season for insurance purposes

During the Storm: Safety First

When a hurricane warning is issued for your area, it's time to execute your preparation plan and prioritize safety above all else.

Final Pre-Storm Actions

• Deploy all hurricane protection: Install shutters or panels over all windows and glass doors. This can take several hours, so start early.
• Bring in all outdoor items: Furniture, grills, plants, decorations—anything that can move should be secured inside.
• Fill bathtubs and containers with water: Municipal water service may be interrupted.
• Turn refrigerator and freezer to coldest settings: Helps preserve food longer if power is lost.
• Charge all devices and backup batteries: Assume you'll lose power and won't get it back for days.
• Park vehicles in garage or away from trees: If you don't have a garage, park away from trees and structures that could fall.
• Know your evacuation route: If ordered to evacuate, do so immediately. Don't wait.

Staying Safe During the Hurricane

• Stay inside, away from windows, in an interior room on the lowest floor
• Listen to weather radio or apps for updates (conserve phone battery)
• Never go outside during the eye of the storm—winds will resume from the opposite direction
• If you lose power, turn off major appliances to prevent damage when power returns
• Monitor for flooding and be ready to move to higher ground if necessary
• Stay off the phone except for emergencies to keep lines clear

Post-Storm Inspection and Recovery

Once the storm has passed and officials declare it's safe to go outside, a thorough inspection of your property is essential for identifying damage and preventing further problems.

Immediate Safety Checks

• Check for structural damage: Don't enter your home if you see major structural issues. Contact a professional immediately.
• Watch for downed power lines: Stay far away and report them to FPL or your utility company. Assume all lines are live.
• Check for gas leaks: If you smell gas, leave immediately and call the gas company from a safe location.
• Inspect electrical system: If you see sparks, frayed wires, or smell burning, don't turn on power. Have an electrician inspect the system.
• Look for water damage: Check ceilings, walls, and floors for signs of water intrusion. Address quickly to prevent mold.

Detailed Property Assessment

Walk your entire property systematically, photographing and documenting all damage for insurance purposes:

1. Roof inspection: Look for missing or damaged shingles, damaged flashing, and any signs of water intrusion in the attic
2. Windows and doors: Check for broken glass, damaged frames, and water intrusion around openings
3. Siding and exterior: Document any damage to siding, stucco, or brick. Note impact damage from debris
4. Gutters and drainage: Clear any storm debris and ensure water flows away from your home
5. Trees and landscaping: Remove any hanging branches that pose a threat. Don't attempt to cut large trees yourself
6. Fence and outdoor structures: Assess damage to fences, sheds, and other structures
7. HVAC and mechanical systems: Check that outdoor units weren't damaged and test operation

When to Call a Professional

While there's plenty homeowners can do to prepare, certain tasks require professional expertise, tools, and licensing. Don't put yourself at risk or potentially void your insurance by attempting work beyond your skill level.

Always Hire a Professional For:

• Roof repairs and inspections: Working on a roof is dangerous and requires specialized knowledge, especially for South Florida's tile and metal roofs
• Major tree trimming or removal: Large trees near structures or power lines require professional arborists with proper equipment and insurance
• Electrical work: Florida law requires licensed electricians for most electrical work, and for good reason—improper electrical work is dangerous and can void insurance
• Structural repairs: Any damage to load-bearing walls, foundations, or major framing requires professional engineering assessment
• Major plumbing: While you might handle minor repairs, major plumbing work requires licensed professionals to meet building codes
• Hurricane shutter installation: Proper installation is critical for shutters to perform as designed during hurricanes
• Generator installation: Improper generator installation can be deadly and must be done by licensed electricians

Benefits of Professional Pre-Season Inspection

A professional inspection before hurricane season offers peace of mind and often catches problems you might miss:

• Experienced eyes that know what to look for in South Florida homes
• Proper tools and equipment to safely access and inspect all areas
• Knowledge of current building codes and insurance requirements
• Documentation that can support insurance claims if needed
• Prioritized repair list based on urgency and impact on storm safety
• Ability to complete repairs immediately rather than scheduling multiple contractors